On 29 and 30 March 2023 the Netherlands will be one of the co-hosts of the second Summit for Democracy, organized by the United States. The other co-hosts are Costa Rica, Zambia and South Korea. Around the world, democracy and human rights are under threat. Together, we must do everything we can to ensure that democratic principles are not further undermined.
During the first day of the Summit for Democracy, the political leaders of the four co-host countries will each chair a session on the challenges democracies face and the potential ways we can respond. Prime Minister Rutte will chair a session on the theme ‘Democracy– Delivering Justice for All’.
On 30 March, the Netherlands, as co-host for the broader European region, will also hold an event on media freedom. The Netherlands is working around the world to protect and promote fundamental principles such as democracy, the rule of law and human rights. Freedom of expression is a precondition for a well-functioning democracy, and the media play a key role in this regard. The media have the platforms and resources to develop ideas and stimulate the public debate, so that people can make up their own minds.
Freedom of the press and independent media can never be taken for granted, however. In many countries, including in Europe, media freedom is under threat and women journalists in particular are the targets of abuse.
